When Do You Wash Exfoliates Off and When Should You Leave Them On?

by Linda Robison

Do you wash exfoliates off or leave them on?

Ever found yourself pondering over this question? Well, you're not alone!

But, it's important to get it right. Because some exfoliates are powerful and should NOT be left too long on the skin. Or you could suffer some serious skin issues from irritation to burns.

do you wash exfoliates off

Not to worry, though. I'm here to help demystify this and make it simple! 😊

Is exfoliation necessary

Yes! If you want smooth, glowing "glass skin", you must exfoliate!

Exfoliation is a crucial part of any skincare routine. It aids in the removal of dead skin cells, unclogs pores, supports collagen production, reduces the look of fine lines, and reveals fresh radiant skin.

However, understanding when to wash off and when to leave on exfoliates poses challenges that often depend on the type of exfoliant used, the user's skin type, and the product's specific instructions.

Alright, let's dive a bit deeper into the world of exfoliants! So, there are two main types: physical and chemical. Here's the lowdown on each:

Physical vs chemical exfoliation

Physical Exfoliators

These are the ones you can feel working right away. They usually come in the form of scrubs, brushes, or sponges. When you massage them onto your skin, they physically slough off dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smoother and looking brighter.

Think of them like little scrubbing buddies for your face!

  • How They Work: Massaging the skincare products in a circular motion causes friction, which physically removes dead cells and dirt from the surface of your skin. These products often contain small particles like sugar, salt, or jojoba beads that help in this process.
  • How They Differ: Physical exfoliants provide instant gratification since you can feel them working immediately. These are always washed off after a few minutes of massaging. However, they can be a bit harsh if you have sensitive skin or if you use them too often. Make sure to read the instructions.
  • Examples Include: Facial scrubs with granules, facial brushes, exfoliating sponges, and even washcloths can fall into this category.

Chemical Exfoliators (or acid exfoliants)

These may sound a bit intimidating, but they're actually quite gentle and effective. Chemical exfoliants use acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.

They come in various forms, including leave-on serums, masks, peels, and even some cleansers.

  • How They Work: Chemical exfoliants work by breaking down the bonds (or the glue) between dead skin cells, making it easier for them to slough off. They can penetrate deeper into the skin compared to physical exfoliants, resulting in smoother, brighter skin over time.
  • How They Differ: Unlike physical exfoliants, chemical exfoliants don't require any scrubbing or rubbing. These types are usually left on the face for a short time to work their magic, then washed off. Some can even be used daily, depending on their concentration and your skin's tolerance. Make sure to read the instructions.
  • Examples Include: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid and lactic acid. And beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid, and enzymes like papain (from papaya) or bromelain (from pineapple) are common ingredients in chemical exfoliants. 

Which exfoliation process is better?

When it comes to choosing between physical and chemical exfoliants, it really depends on your skin type and preference. 

If you like instant results and have tougher skin, you might lean towards physical exfoliants. But if you have sensitive skin or prefer a gentler approach, chemical exfoliants might be your best bet. 

Note: I have normal skin, so I like to switch up my exfoliants to keep things fresh. One week, I'll reach for a physical scrub to give my skin a good buffing. Then, a week or two later, I'll switch to a lactic acid serum for some chemical exfoliation. Mixing it up like this helps me maintain smooth and radiant skin without overdoing it. It's important to experiment to see what works best for your skin. 

Leave on or wash off exfoliate: Consider your skin type for best results

So, when it comes to choosing between physical and chemical exfoliants, it really depends on your skin type and personal preference.

If you like instant results, and you're not the sensitive type, you might lean towards physical exfoliants. But if you have a delicate complexion or prefer a gentler approach, chemical exfoliants might be your best bet.

Best experience: Consider your skin type

For those with normal or oily skin, they can handle a bit more when it comes to exfoliation. Many can switch between both chemical and manual exfoliation products without issues.

But those with sensitive skin conditions have to be careful. If they use something too rough, like a gritty scrub, their might experience redness or irritation. If you're a sensitive type, consider starting out with a gentle exfoliating cleanser.

Figuring out what works for your skin type is like a little experiment. You might have to try different things to see what your skin likes best. 

Final takeaway:

So, knowing when to leave on or wash off exfoliants on depends on the type of product used and your complexion.

Just keep this in mind:

Physical exfoliants should always be washed off. But, these types of products may not suite sensitive complexion types. So keep this in mind when selecting a product.

By understanding these factors and experimenting with different products, you can achieve smooth, glowing skin while ensuring its long-term health and protection.

Use Caution:

Regardless if you use a leave on or wash off exfoliate, remember to always patch test and follow the instructions carefully for whichever exfoliant you choose to use.

And, also, always use a sunscreen to prevent sun damage. Exfoliation process (especially chemical based) may cause your skin to be more sensitive to UV rays. Applying sunscreen daily is always best for optimal results.